DIY Fix: Door Handle not retracting

[Mathieu]

Same here. My Honda e was about 1 1/2 years old when the door handles became not fully retracting. I decided to insert a huge dose of WD40 on both sides in the little hole after the handles and the problem was solved. In case of coming back I will do this again

[5thcivic]

Which hole was that?

[tencherman]

Thank you so much for taking the trouble to document this - much appreciated

[s2ke]

Did this outside today… jesus you want small hands and a dodgy thyroid

I got that black crap everywhere

Thread super helpful - thankyou

[tiitsu]

Today, I had the door handle on my car replaced, and I kept the old one for some investigation. I took it apart, and it looks like the actuator is the same as those found in many older Honda models. I’m considering ordering a replacement to test it out since there are affordable options for similar parts from China—two for about 13 euros. If it works... Will replace next one with original part by myself as replacement cost was 1100 euros!!!

Check out the pictures for yourself. The code on the box is 56A-L

If anyone has a link to a wiring diagram for the Honda Odyssey or a similar model, I’d appreciate it! I want to analyze how the old actuator operates. The mechanic mentioned he tried to apply current, but it didn't function correctly, so the whole handle needed replacement. I'm also thinking about taking a closer look inside the actuator to see if I can identify what actually failed.

Removing actuator:

Actuator itself:

The replacement part looks identical, though the knob on mine is black compared to the one in the picture. Apologies for the poor photo quality!

[tiitsu]

I opened up the actuator, and everything inside looks intact. However, the motor appears rusty, and if anyone knows what a burnt-out electric motor smells like, there was a sharp odor. Not that it necessarily means anything. There’s also a small hole in the corner of the electric motor, which could allow moisture to get inside, and there was indeed moisture in the whole handle assembly. I tested it with a 9V battery, and it wasn’t completely powerless. So, I can’t guarantee this as a 100% fix, but at least it’s something for others to be aware of.

Actuator from inside:

[MrM83]

Thanks for the pics

[Knuttt]

Only got our car earlier this year and both handles won't retract. They're being replaced under warranty but currently out of stock.

I'm saving this page for when the warranty runs out - thank you for all the effort putting this together.

Andy

[green1]

Similar to Mathieu I've had this on my E on the passenger side door handle. I bought one of the WD40 bottles with the flexible metal tube attachment, fully pulled out the handle as far as I could and looked in to try to spray as close to the hidden pivot point as I could get. 1 or 2 brief sprays of less than half a second each. Gave it a week to work itself in as the handle was used and it's back to retracting normally so far.

[5thcivic]

Could someone please post a photo of the little hole where you are supposed to squirt? And is Silicon spray better tha WD40? I thought WD40 leaves a residue eventually?